ADAM GERIK/JOURNAL STAR Virginia Barnard, 88, stands up and cheers as the Little Giants score a touchdown in the second quarter of Friday’s season opener against Peoria Central in Canton. Barnard completed her 77th consecutive high school football opening night, watching from high up in the bleachers along the 50-yard line. Her grandmother graduated from Canton High School in 1872 and her mother in 1900.

ADAM GERIK/JOURNAL STAR The Canton Little Giants rally together prior to Friday’s game against Peoria Central in Canton.

ADAM GERIK/JOURNAL STAR Members of the Canton color guard dance during a halftime show Friday night in Canton.